Fresh & Fun | San Juan Capistrano, Orange County CA Senior Portrait Photographer

I cannot believe how long it has taken me to blog this one... especially since this girl is beyond adorable! I've had the pleasure of knowing K for a number of years, and have seen her grow up so much! She's fun, she's smart and her laugh is literally contagious. We had so much fun running around San Juan Capistrano- and could she have picked cuter outfits?

K- I'm so proud of the beautiful young woman you've become and I am so thrilled to see what's in store for your future! Thank you SO much for letting me capture your senior portraits!

Snappin' at Your Kids: Part Two!

This is the second in our little series about taking better pictures of your kids! Did you read the first one yet? If not- get to it!

Ok, now that that's out of the way, let's move along. This post is going to be aimed at those of you with either a DSLR (if you can change lenses on your digital camera, that's you) or a point-and-shoot with Manual setting capabilities. The most important step, I believe, to taking better pictures of your kids (and better snapshots in general), is to get the heck out of Auto mode. Really. Get out. Step away from the auto settings!

I'm going to break this up into three posts, because there is a lot of information to digest. There is a basic triangle of settings that goes into planning your manual exposure. Manual exposure is all about taking the control into your own hands! You choose your aperture, your shutter speed and your ISO. Huh? We're going to start off with aperture!

Think back to biology class with me for a minute (I know, sorry). Did you ever get to dissect an eyeball? I did- and I LOVED it. But all creepiness aside, the human eye is a helpful guide when we're talking about aperture. In writing, you'll often see aperture written as "f/" or "f-stop". Back to the eyeball. What happens to your pupils when you walk into a dark room? They get BIG! Why? To let in as much light as possible, in order to see. Then when someone flicks on a light (oww!), the pupils contract to smaller diameter to let in less light. Darker situations require larger openings to let in more light; bright situations require smaller openings to control light. This is EXACTLY what aperture does for us!

When I'm in my house shooting my kids, I always have to work to let as much light into my camera as possible. We have pretty good natural light, but not the best. At home, I always keep the lens on my camera that has the biggest aperture possible- in my case, a 50mm 1.4. See that "1.4"? While it is a small number, it is a large opening for my lens. The smaller the number, the more light allowed in. Many kit lenses (the lens that comes with your camera body) do not allow you to go any further than 4-5.6; that just wouldn't work in my house! If you're serious about taking great pics of your kids, I cannot say enough wonderful things about a 50mm 1.8 lens! For both Nikon and Canon, this lens is less than $200 and a total STEAL! Be warned- it is a prime lens. This is not a bad thing- but it takes some getting used to. Prime means that there is no zoom- you have to do the footwork! It is such a fun lens, though!

Here is a photo of my daughter taken in my house, in front of a window. I had a lens on my camera that would let me go as open as f/2.8.


Isn't she adorable? Oh, right... aperture. You can see that there was plenty of light! This photo also leads into the next use of aperture: we also use it to control depth-of-field. Notice how Kate's eyes are nice and sharp, but the background is blurred and creamy? That, my friends, is aperture at work. The lower your aperture, the less area will be in focus. There are other intricacies of depth-of-field that I am not going to dwell on right now- aperture is enough to worry about right now!

Aperture: 1.4


One of the questions I get asked often is how to get that blurry background- well there you have it! The closer you are to your subject, the blurrier the background will be.

Hopefully that is a helpful start! Next time we'll talk about Shutter Speed! Questions? Leave a comment or shoot me an email- I'm happy to talk to you more!

Beauty | Newport Beach Maternity Photography

Even the cloudy, dreary day couldn't stomp down this mama-to-be's gorgeousness! L&B are expecting their first baby, a boy, in December and she is looking completely amazing! I keep telling myself I need to stop shooting maternity portraits because I get jealous of these gorgeous mamas EVERY time! I mean really, is it fair to look that beautiful when you're that pregnant?!

Congrats, L&B- cannot wait to hear all about the little man!

Five Tips for Snappin' at Your Kids! | Mission Viejo, Orange County California Baby & Child Photography

As a portrait photographer, I get asked a lot of great questions from clients, friends and family about capturing great photos. While there are a lot of technical things to get into, (and I will talk about some of those things in the future!) there are certain things you can do right now to improve your photos of your kids.

1. Get down on their level!
One of the most important steps to take your photos of your kids from "aww!" to "oooh!" is to work those leg muscles and get down on their level. Instead of pointing the camera down toward them, bring yourself down and shoot straight on- it makes a huge difference!



2. Find the right light!
Many parents are astonished when I move their children into shade, rather than in full sun. "Don't you want lots of light?" Well, yes and no. I DO want light- I DON'T want it direct. Direct light leads to shadows, squinty eyes and generally unflattering light. Pull them into full shade, and the eyes will be brighter, the skin will be consistent and darn it- that kid will be happier for not being blinded! Watch out under trees, though! When the sun shines through the trees and causes spots of bright light, that is called dappled light- and no one likes that in their photos.

Sunny day... shady spot...

And this brings us to our next point...

3. Have them facing a source of light for sparkly eyes!
One of the most asked questions I get is, "How do you make their eyes look so sparkly? Photoshop??" No, it isn't Photoshop (not all of it at least). You can't get realistic sparkle in their eyes if it isn't there already! While you're taking their picture, turn them facing toward a source of light- maybe a window in your home, toward a sunny area if you're in the shade (you're in full shade already, right??)... you get the idea. If you turn them toward a dark wall or shady hedges, their eyes remain dark. As they said in Hair, "Let the Sunshine In"!

4. Don't get angry- get silly!
It's tough. You really want a nice photo of your kids. You have a great setting, pretty clothes and great intentions. But they're kids. And it's frustrating! I laugh when parents tell me how patient I am with their kids, because it's so different when I'm shooting my own! "Sit down! Look here! Not that kind of smile!!!!" You feel me? Let them be kids- laugh with them, make dog noises, pretend to sneeze... do what you have to do. My clients can attest to this- I have no problem making a fool of myself! It's worth it!



5. Redefine your idea of "the perfect photo"!
Okay, I know this isn't exactly a tip, but I think it's an important point to be made. We get this image in our minds of the perfect picture, and we can't let go. Believe me- when I can't achieve a shot I've been dreaming of, I want to throw things. But as parents, we really need to rethink what makes a great photo of our children. It does not take thousands of dollars in photo equipment to capture very special images. It doesn't take perfect smiles, the perfect outfit or magic, angelic children that do not exist to achieve a beautiful image. Some of my very favorite photos of my kids are ones that include drooly faces or stained t-shirts. Get photos of them with people who you care about... I have only one photo of my son with his great aunt, who passed one month after he was born. Was it a magnificent portrait? Not in the least. Is it a treasure? Absolutely. Get in the photos yourself! Don't stay behind the camera all the time- your kids will love having photos with you later. So, in short, do your best, have fun and take LOTS of photos!

I'm really looking forward to sharing more tips with you about using your camera, taking pictures of your kids and sharing them with others! Now get your camera out and get to work!

Awaiting Avery | Irvine, Orange County, CA Maternity Photography

If there'd been a camera in the room the day my dear friend Andrew called to tell me that he and his beautiful wife, Mary, we're expecting their first baby, my video probably would've gone viral as people laughed at my emotions- that's what a squealy, crying mess I was. Yes, I said squealy.

To say that I'm "excited" for these guys is just silly. A total understatement. I'm thrilled, elated, joyful... you get it. I'm a mess. It was a total honor to take some time with two of my favorite people to grab some maternity shots of Mary's gorgeous mommy-to-be-ness. I mean, really... could she look any more amazing? I've been 33 weeks pregnant- twice- and never looked as radiant as her! I love it!





This one *kinda* makes my heart sing... they are going to be the best parents! Swoon!








I cannot WAIT to meet beautiful Avery in just a few weeks... thank you guys for your time, your good humor and your friendship!

Sleepy | Mission Viejo, Orange County Newborn Photography

This little sweetheart was about as perfect as they come... sleeping from the minute I arrived until it was time to pack up and go! I could not believe how easy she made my job! Little Miss A is completely swoon worthy- creamy skin, sweet new baby hair and so mellow. Baby fever, anyone? Top it off with the cutest big sister, and it was a perfect day!





Thanks so much, N&J, for having me in your home to meet your sweet family! Looking forward to seeing your family again for the holidays!

Snuggly | Torrance Newborn Photography

This sweet little guy's mama contacted me a few months back to book her newborn session and it was SO exciting to receive the news that Baby E had made his appearance! New babies are always a thrill in my inbox!

I made my way up to my hometown of Torrance to meet this precious new wonder! He was unquestionably adorable! One of my favorite parts of the whole session was hearing his parents laugh and smile at his sweetness... love!

Baby E made me work, I won't lie... kept an eye on me for a while before he gave us just a little sleep to capture those sweet sleepy shots. In the end, I got him, though!

Thank you so much, C&K, for having me in your home to capture E's first days- he is completely perfect!



Isn't he the most?!

Sweet little brother | Mission Viejo Newborn Photography

Remember this gorgeous mama? Well, their sweet new addition is here and wow- is he ever perfect!!

I was so thrilled to be asked to capture baby M's newborn portraits- when I arrived, I was not disappointed! Soft olive skin, sweet dark hair and the cutest lips! All that, next to his adorable big brother... and I was mush. Check out his little smile in the image on the bed... are you kidding me?!



I'm blessed by this family and cannot wait to meet up again for holiday photos! Thanks, J&C, for sharing your amazing family with me!

Give a Little Bit!

As we all know, we're living in tough times. As much as everyone deserves great family photos in their home, not everyone can afford the investment right now. That is why I am giving away one free session to a lucky family this holiday season! How can you help, you ask? Nominate!

Perhaps you know a family in Orange County who would love some custom family portraits, but has fallen on hard times. This is their chance! Send me their story, via email, before September 30th. On October 1st, I will choose one family to receive a free holiday portrait session, as well as 10 high resolution images on disk and 3 8x10 prints!

Some rules:
* Sessions must be within 20 miles of 92691.
* Only one family will be chosen for the holiday season of 2011.
* You may not nominate yourself.

Get to sending those stories!
Alison

Amazing Grace | Orange County, CA Baby & Family Photography

I was beyond thrilled when a) I heard Grace and her mommy were coming to town, and b) that I was going to have the opportunity to get her in front of my camera! See, I've been waiting to snap this little girl since the day she was born! Grace's daddy has been a dear friend since we were high school kids; he even introduced me to his roomie in college- who I ended up marrying! He and his beautiful wife moved to Alabama shortly after the were married, and so when Grace entered the world, she was 2,000 miles away from me!!

It was so much fun joining her extended family down in San Diego for a little shoot with Grace and her big (all boy!) cousins! Besides being adorable, she is inquisitive, snuggly and all around loveable. She had to put up with a fair number of kisses from me, too- hey, I have to get them in when I can!

Love you, Gracie! Can't wait to see you next time you head out west!

Monthly Newsletter | Orange County Newborn, Baby, Child, Family and Engagement Photography

I'm excited to have launched my very first monthly newsletter today! In the coming months, I'll be communicating thoughts, ideas, promotions & specials, new product highlights, photography tips & tricks for you and more via my newsletter! Didn't receive it today, but want in? Just send me an email (alison@alisonkayphotography.com) with "newsletter" in the subject line, and I'll be sure to include you in all the fun!

Here's a little peek... sign up now to read the rest!

Waiting | Mission Viejo, Orange County Maternity Photography

I had the honor of spending some time with the C family, and photographing this beautiful mama as they patiently await the arrival of their second son. J&C are the sweetest parents- so clearly in love with their sweet son, D, who is about as cute as they come. The big brother-to-be has the cutest little smile, which he made me work hard for (good thing I knew the theme song for Jack's Big Music Show)!

Thanks for entrusting your maternity portraits to me, C- and I cannot wait to meet your sweet new addition in a little over a week!


Could she look any more stunning? Seriously!

One! | Mission Viejo Child Photographer

The day has come... my sweet baby boy is ONE today!



This year has passed by so fast. This little guy brings me so much joy! Happy birthday sweet Will man! Mommy, daddy and Kate love you so much!

Happy July- and Merry Christmas! | Orange County Family Photographer

Summer is officially in full swing and I hope you're enjoying the weather, the time with the kids and the many specialities of summer- cool watermelon, sweet corn and lots of time outside, hopefully in a pool somewhere!

While Christmas may be the LAST thing on your mind right now, it is in the forefront of my mind for sure! The next five months are going to fly by and I'm already prepping for Christmas photo season! The inquiries about Christmas portraits are hitting my inbox already, and so, I will be running my Christmas in July promo to give first priority to early bookings! Sessions must be completed in October, November or early December. I will take VERY FEW sessions in the month of December (Saturday, December 3rd will be my last session for the season) to ensure everyone gets their images and cards in time... and to ensure my sanity for the better part of the month ;-) So what does this promo include?

Christmas in July offer:
* 30% off of your session fee ($60 discount; still includes $100 print credit included in normal session fee)
* One free high resolution digital image for your holiday cards; color or black & white ($50 value)
* 10% off additional prints (great Christmas gifts)
* 25% off custom designed holiday cards

This offer ends July 31st, so be sure to book before July is over. Your date will be held with a $100 non-refundable deposit. So give me a call or shoot me an email so we can get you scheduled! Looking forward to capturing your families this holiday season!

It's Summer! | Newport Beach Family Photography

Summer is here- it's official! And what better way to start the summer than a family shoot down at the beautiful Crystal Cove? I cannot get enough of Crystal Cove- the 1930's cottages, the soft sand and the beautiful light... what's not to love? And after July 1st, an added bonus is the Ruby's Shake Shack up on PCH (we were bummed it wasn't open yet!!)

This family is about as adorable as it gets; mom and dad were completely delightful to work with and the kids were a total joy! Though I am loving being a stay at home mom to my children and chasing this photography dream, I do miss the years I spent in youth ministry (my former "real job"). These kids brought that warmth back to my heart that I would experience in youth ministry... such joy! I have to say my favorite part was finding a little crab and one of the kids asking the infamous question, "Can we keep it?!" Too much fun!

Thank you, D family, for meeting me down at beautiful Crystal Cove- your family had me smiling even as I drove home; you're blessed!

Growing | Mission Viejo Baby Photographer

Phew- it's been a while since I blogged some sweet photos! And tonight, I'm sharing my mini man. My little love. Who, all of the sudden, is 10 months old. I'm not entirely sure how that went so quickly, but suddenly I am finding myself spending too much time on Pinterest looking up great ideas for his 1st birthday party.

So my little Will. He crawls, but travels more quickly in the army crawl position. He's pulling up and cruising on the furniture like a pro. He laughs uncontrollably at his big sister and has the.best.hair in South Orange County. If we had a dollar for every comment we hear about his hair when we're out and about, he'd have a sweet college fund growing already.

I love this little gentleman.



"I like big cankles and I cannot lie..."




Life is beautiful.

Gorgeous. | Ladera Ranch Family Photography

Part of what I love so much about my job is meeting new people! It's always fun to learn more about someone, and every once in a while, be reminded what a small world it is when you are connected through another person in some way. Fun!

The V family is absolutely beautiful- magazine ad beautiful. Mom and dad are simply the sweetest, and passed their lucky genes right on down to their sweet son, G. I even enjoyed their 'little dog, too'! I had a blast with them and look forward to G's one year pictures in six short months. Thanks for everything, M & J!

Mr. G is One! | Rancho Santa Margarita Family Photography

It is amazing to me how quickly time is going by... it seems like just weeks ago I was photographing little G for his 6-month portraits (remember this guy?), but as it turns out, its been 6 months and he is one! He has grown in to the cutest, most curious, handsome little man! He is walking like a champ and making me work for smiles- I love it! I also got to capture him with mom and dad again, which is always a treat!

Thanks, P fam! I had a blast, as always!

Spring | San Juan Capistrano Child Photography

There is nothing quite like spring- sunny skies, wildflowers and sweet dresses for little girls. How could I not be in love with this season?

Sweet Sisters | Irvine Child Portrait Photography

Growing up, I always wanted a sister... but alas, was an only child. My daughter, though she loves her baby brother, is constantly asking her daddy and I for a baby sister. There is just something about sisters.

Mom wanted some 6 month pics of Miss K, and we got big sis A in on the fun too. These girls are beyond precious- pretty curls, stunning baby blues and the best smiles you've ever seen! Thanks, M for sharing your girls with me- you're one blessed mama!